Educational Programs

Junior Naturalist Program

As part of the Junior Naturalist program, kids 7-12 years old, participate in several different activities to earn a certificate, gold seal and embroidered patch. Activities highlight the park's resources through guided nature hikes, recreational activities, evening programs, and other fun and educational offerings.

Participants will receive a Junior Naturalist Guidebook packed with fun activities that guide kids as they learn about Custer State Park and its heritage.

To earn an embroidered patch, a series of activities and a Junior Naturalist Hour is required of each participant. During the summer season, qualifying activities are held daily in the park.

Pups Program

The Pups Program is designed to help 4-6 year olds learn more about nature and Custer State Park. Similar to the Junior Naturalist Program, there are requirements for the kids to complete in order to earn an embroidered patch for their hard work. Qualifying activities are held daily in the park during the summer season.

Virtual Geocache Adventure

Custer State Park offers a Virtual Geocache Adventure each year. No physical caches are hidden--instead, nature provides the answer! Seven waypoints will guide participants to a natural or historic landmark, an interpretive sign, a scenic area or overlook to find the answer to a variety of questions!

Interested participants should stop by the Peter Norbeck Outdoor Education Center and pick up the Virtual Geocache brochure. The hunt begins June 1 and ends Oct 31. Answers are not revealed until after Oct 31! Participants who successfully find the correct answer will be entered into a drawing for a variety of prizes.